Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Quick Dry Protection mild

In this review of the Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short, the bottom line is simple: these are purpose-built swim shorts for anyone who spends long days on the water and wants reliable sun and stain protection without sacrificing comfort. They stand out because of their combination of OMNI-SHADE sun protection and a quick-drying textured poplin that makes them practical for boating, beach days, or casual wear after a swim. The relaxed cut and practical pockets make them an easy go-to for outdoor water activities.

Key Features

• Sun protection: OMNI-SHADE blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays so the shorts reduce direct sun exposure during long days outdoors.
• Water and stain resistance: OMNI-SHIELD repels light precipitation and resists stains so the fabric stays wearable and clean longer between washes.
• Quick dry comfort: The 100% nylon textured poplin dries fast for all-day comfort when moving between water and land activities.
• Secure storage: A zippered security pocket and hand pockets keep small items safe while you swim or move around the boat.
• Adjustable fit: The drawcord stretch waist and relaxed fit provide easy on-off wear and a comfortable leg room that is not too tight.
• Built-in support: An interior mesh brief offers immediate comfort and coverage so you can swim without adding a separate liner.

Who It's For

The Backcast IV is aimed at anglers, boaters, and beachgoers who need practical swim shorts that protect from the sun and dry quickly after getting wet. It is well suited for men who prefer a relaxed fit and want hand pockets plus a zippered pocket to carry small essentials securely while active.

Those who want a fashion-forward street short with heavier fabric or a tailored, slim leg should look elsewhere; this model prioritizes function over dressy styling. If deep cargo storage or insulated fabric are must-haves, consider a different style designed specifically for those needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable sun protection with OMNI-SHADE, recommended for extended outdoor use.
• Quick-drying 100% nylon poplin that improves comfort after swimming or splashes.
• Practical pocket layout including a zippered security pocket for valuables.
• Relaxed fit and drawcord waist for comfortable, adjustable wear.

Cons

• Pocket depth received mixed feedback from some users, so very large items may not be ideal for all pockets.
• Lightweight poplin prioritizes quick dry and comfort over structured, dressy appearance.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Fabric	100% nylon textured poplin
Sun protection	OMNI-SHADE (UVA and UVB protection)
Water/stain resistance	OMNI-SHIELD treatment
Fit	Relaxed fit with drawcord adjustable stretch waist
Support	Interior mesh brief
Pockets	Hand pockets and zippered security pocket

Our Verdict

The Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short is a strong choice for anyone who needs dependable sun protection, fast drying performance, and practical pockets for water-based activities. Its relaxed fit and quick-dry fabric deliver excellent wearability and durability for the price, making it a good value for boaters, swimmers, and casual beach users who want function first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts protect from the sun?
Yes, they feature OMNI-SHADE which blocks UVA and UVB rays for extended sun protection.

Will they dry quickly after swimming?
Yes, the 100% nylon textured poplin is designed for quick drying and all-day comfort.

Are the pockets secure for valuables?
They include a zippered security pocket for small valuables, though front pocket depth can vary by use.